Hoover Windtunnel dirt cup issue - Hoover's response

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Me and Mark got lost in a fuss about old phones!


 


5 YEARS? That's $100 a year on a VACUUM CLEANER. Try 40, 50 years! You shouldn't 'expect' to get free vacuums off Amazon, that's not how the world works. About half of vacuumland has attempted to help you see past Dyson, but we've apparently failed. We still try, though! ALL vacuums require replacement parts. If you break that belt on your Dyson, have fun replacing it! I can change a Kirby belt blind-folded, that's $5 a year in belts, maybe 75¢ for a bulb, too. Americans are too cheap if they're whining about $5.75 a year to keep a vacuum going, although it's fine when you're willing to spend $500 a year on a 'quality' Dyson.if it's quality, why are you shocked to see it last 5 years?
 
I have two Dysons in my collection-they don't get used-one is a DC04 from the Kirby dealer trade in pile-the other is the first "Ball" model.Find both clacky,clunky to use-when I used them you would hear the sound of creaking plastic.And at the vacuum dealer here---Seen SEVERAL dirty,dusty,and broken Dysons in their dumpster.I don't want to deal with bagless vacs except Filter Queen,Rainbow or Water Matic,or dump bag Kirbys.Those are truely built to last-and service easily if something does go wrong.Its gotten to the point even with Dysons---Many owners choose to dumpster the broken one and buy a new one.These are expensive machines!
 
Why are you shocked to see it last 5 years?

Because Nic's young generation has been taught that generally everything has a limited short shelf life. Everything seems to be replaced just after something new has been released, say after 6 months.

TTI are a good example of this - they repaint vacuums every couple of 6 months, add a new feature or a bell and a whistle and slap a high price on it. Hoover fans and whoever else TTI own are attracted to the high build up a frenzy of media interest and everyone has to have one. Dyson also do this, to remain "competitive" on the market.

But unless you have worked hard, saved hard and actually paid for a vacuum cleaner yourself, then you won't know what machine is good value or not.
 
Have you actually read my profile? You may find a few surprises there.

I like the concepts of his OTHER inventions like the hand dryer, the old washing machines etc. Id rather buy a Dyson tap dryer in my home than any of their current vacuums.
 
Meanwhile my 1982 Kenmore 4.1 canister soldiers on without fail, switchable from the hose handle like modern vacs, even an infinitely variable speed motor. The only things that have ever failed are the original hose split, repaired using the original ends and new hose stock from Sears, and a motor in the Powermate. The plastics are outstanding, thicker and a touch softer than what you find on modern vacs and the motor is a nice big two stage Lamb. Nothing sexy, even a little frumpy by today's standards, but three decades of routine use and it still performs like new. This is what many here expect of a vacuum, and why we are not willing to respect vacs that fail in four to six years due to broken flimsy plastics or motors with failed bearings and/or worn out brushes that are not replaceable. I can use another powered brush while the original is being rebuilt.

The worst I will likely ever face with this vac is a motor rebuild (though when I checked last month the brushes were only about 1/4 to 1/3 worn so it won't need anything any time soon), a cord winder for which I recently found two sources of new ones ( ! ) and maybe another hose. The Powermate can be rebuilt using current production parts used in Hayden/Nutone/Centec heads. In fact I am in the process of rebuilding it again with an updated swivel neck and wand, still in the same ivory color of the original parts, and a new production motor. When done it will be mechanically new and identical to a brand new Hayden other than it saying Kenmore on the headlight cover.

Vacuums do not have to be throw away appliances, but as pointed out earlier, a younger generation has no idea that such appliances can be made to last a lifetime and don't have to fail like this Dyson did.
 
I want to apologize

For leading the topic of faulty Hoover dust bins to rotary phones & to carry it on further. I didn't think going off track for a moment was going to cause a full blown panic for something free. I will reframe from voicing my opinion on this topic or for that matter any other topic here after on said websight. Have a nice day!
 
Super-sweeper, it's true that some threads on forums can drift off into other subjects. As for lifespan, it's true that some vacuums last longer than others. Fantoms and Dysons tend to last longer than other vacuums. I've heard that the oldest Fantoms were from 1994, so they're still going on 19-20 years old. We all know that vacuums require replacement parts. Fantoms needed expensive HEPA filters, as well as belts. Dysons use lifetime filters that only need to be washed every 3-6 months and never replaced. Newer Dysons have lifetime belts. The new DC50 features a "direct drive" system with the brushbar motor inside the brushbar.

Tolivac, that's unusual for Dysons. I don't understand the people who say they are garbage, they probably don't know how to maintain them, etc. Dysons aren't cheap!

Sebo_fan, yes, Hoover tends to reuse some fairly recent designs for their "new" vacuums. My Hoover Windtunnel 2 Rewind Pet is heavily based on the T-Series. Dyson also does that. For example, the DC65 is based off of the DC41, but with a remodeled cyclone assembly and stronger brushbar motor. I liked the idea of Dyson's "Contrarotator" washing machine, but sadly, those machines never made it to the USA.

DesertTortoise, it's true that some vintage vacuums will last over 30 years. At my local food bank, there is a Eureka ESP Self-Propelled from the '80s and it's still kicking! In addition, they also have a Bissell Powerforce Helix that is about two years old and still does its job.

Marks_here, it's all good. You have a nice day too. :)
 
Sorry but Dyson is not high end. The only high end is the price of the machine and those videos mean nothing.

I've had my DC24 break numerous times 3 or 4 handles in 4 years, 3 cleanerheads, 1 hose and finally the whole body snapped, requiring a complete rebuilt at Dysons head office in the UK. Now one month after repair my Dyson has developed an issue with the on off switch not working, meaning I must unplug it to switch it off. Of those videos where true then I doubt I would have had all those parts break over the 4 years and wasn't there a problem once with DC41 wheels snapping off? This wasn't shown in the video.

What keeps me loyal to Dyson is the excellent backup service and I used to big a big fan of their vacuums. Also they never hesitate to send out parts free of charge and when they messed me about for 4 weeks with an engineer (I took time off work, it was inconvenient) they sent out a battery for my 7 year old DC16 and when they failed to collect my machine I complained nicely and received a remanufactured DC35 cordless (which came with a faulty battery that cut out every 3 minutes LOL) I've had many Dysons over the years so I'm sure they saw from their records. But since having the DC24 and checking out the latest models I'm considering changing to something more substantial once my warranty is up at the end of the year.

The latest Dysons just feel horrid. At least they still supply the DC25 which at least feels a bit more substantial than the rest of their machines. I think I'd rather go for a VAX if I need to change again and it be bagless. I have to say that bagless is my preference.
 
The Dyson filters do tend to block after years, or mine did anyway, was told lifetime, but at 5 years air flow was down, new filters all good again. Its my only Dyson, I do like it, its easy to use and works, for ME. I Got a good deal on it at $181 clearance, nothing has broken at all, still looks and works like new 6 years later.Not built like my 82 Silverado I would say, but what is?
 
Blakaeg, sorry to hear of your luck on your DC24! Dysons do tend to have questionable durability. Some say that Dysons are cheaply made (which I don't believe). I'm glad to hear that you've had good luck with Dyson's service.

Suckolux, yes, Dyson vacuums prior to the DC24 had "permanent lifetime" HEPA filters that never needed replacing. Those filters tend to clog up and smell over the years. When the DC24 was introduced in early 2008, Dyson introduced a rinsable HEPA filter, which fixes the issues of clogging up and smelling. My old DC07 still works perfectly after 6.5 years, and I've never had to replace a part on it.
 
sebofan,

You're absolutely right. Modern people can't understand that things used to last and that a vacuum wasn't something you threw away every 5 years.


 


Fantom filters were expensive, but what room do you have to say that when the Dyson is $100 a year (if it lasts 5 years!). Today filters are around $20. The Dyson still is $500. 


 


Another thing modern people don't get is the art of rigging.my Fantom now has HEPA filtration thanks to a $1 Sanitare bag. People used to fix their cars with wrenches and WD40, and lube a bearing in a mixer if it exploded while making a cake for the PTA meeting. Today people would throw away that mixer and buy a new one, and rack-up a bill with the repair shop on their car (you need an engineering degree to work on modern cars, thanks fuel efficiency!).
 
Lubing bearings in older machines-since they were open type bearings you could relube them-but in todays machines they are SEALED so you can't just clean and relube.You have to replace the bearing or--as for some folks they replace the machine.I just replace the bearing.Done this many times with vacuums or power tool motors.It is not difficult.
 
Smelly pet Dyson vac--the one I bought from the Kirby trade in pile smelled like stale dog.Washed out the cyclone assembly and bin.Cut all of the twined dog hair off the brushroll.then REPLACED that filter you would wash.At the time new one was only like 15 bucks from Best Buy.I didn't want to try to wash out someone elses icky dog residue from the filter.Then the machine worked better an no longer smelled.These are things you can try.Sometimes the plastic can absorb odors-then it is more difficult to get the smell out.
 
The thing that everyone forgets when they have pets is the major component that honks out a home even after everything has been washed and cleaned - the actual hose! Hoses are bad for keeping the smell of all things pet like, including the rather obvious brown gunge and hair oils that stick to the inside of hoses that have coils.
 
Super-sweeper

My old DC07 has lasted more than 5 years. It hasn't been thrown away yet.

Today, Miele has the most expensive HEPA filters. They are $50 each. Miele vacuums are expensive!

I don't rig my vacuums or do MacGyver stuff to them. There was one exception, though. Back in January, the cord clip on my Hoover Windtunnel broke off. I super-glued it back on. It took a couple days to bond, but it's held up really well. It hasn't broken to this day.

niclonnic-2014072514020901724_1.jpg
 
really? 5 years so far?

That's great (and surprising)! But it can't hold a cabbage to the decades of reliable service my Fantoms and Kirbys have given! I've never had to rig a thing, except the HEPA upgrade for the thunder!
 
A Dyson should be fine in the right hands.

I don't abuse my 2005 DC07, and it's never broken a part on me. I feel, the better you treat your machine, the longer it will last. I know the DC07 was NOT dyson's best model, but it is not that bad if you don't have VERY thick carpeting. It is more durable than many other bagless vacuums. I am VERY impressed with it's root cyclone technology, hands down the best in any vacuum I have ever owned.
 
My keyboard froze on me!

I meant that the Dc07 has the best bagless technology that I have used. Dyson has it's good points, it has good post motor filtration, excellent pre motor filtration, most have strong suction, and they arguably have the best bagless separation system. Other companies are catching up though. Many have excellent systems, like the higher-end bagless Kenmore canister. Everybody that has told me they have a Dyson says they love it. I just wish that people would realize that his "ball" technology is not as revolutionary as it may seem. Remember the Air-Way from the 1920's? I also wish people would realize that they can do better instead of a $600 high end Dyson. I was disturbed when I walked into a Target about a month ago. I was DISTURBED how much cheaper in build quality the new Dysons were, compared to my Dc07!
 
Yeah!

Dyson has perfected the cyclonic technology, especially with their newer machines. Only Dyson cyclones can pull everything out of the air, so that the filter doesn't get dirty.

My Hoover Windtunnel, on the other hand, is dual-cyclonic, similar to the Fantoms. The pre-motor filter gets dirty after a few uses, but I haven't noticed a drop in performance. On the top of the dirt cup, there is a green/red "System Check Indicator." When this indicator turns red, it's time to empty the dirt cup or rinse the pre-motor filter. I haven't seen it turn red during normal vacuuming, except when I put my hand at the end of the hose, blocking off the suction.

Below is a pic of the Hoover's pre-motor filter after a few uses.

niclonnic-2014072515560902207_1.jpg
 
Dyson are more expensive than Miele in the UK

Miele vacuums may be expensive to buy but they have been rated the best reliable cylinder vacuums in the UK by Which (our "independent consumer institute) and SEBO gets the upright prize for reliability.

Dyson has yet to crawl itself out of the "average" category.

Whether or not you believe stats, Miele filters aren't expensive world wide, certainly not in comparison to Dyson's own filters and here in the UK, new Dyson models appear to be a bit more expensive than Miele or SEBO.
 
Sebo_fan...

That really is interesting how Miele is less expensive than Dyson in the UK (I looked it up).

I don't know much about conversion between British pounds and U.S. dollars, but it certainly is an interesting thing.
 
It all has to do with economics and of course the strength of the dollar as well as market "trends" in my opinion.

It also has a lot to do with Dyson and Miele in the U.S - for years U.S buyers have had to buy capped models on specification, rather like everything that is marked "premium," thus in turn you pay to upgrade for most cases.

Miele in UK and Europe however are different. Parts and spares have always been made available from Miele UK but until the 'net came along, a wider choice is now available. Thus, in turn you don't have to spend massively on a "Cat and Dog" Miele S6 vacuum when you can custom build your own based on current spec.

But buyers don't want to do that in general and most just want the package deal all in one. I noted for many years that Miele accessories, tools etc are not available to buy in the U.S as widespread as European Miele.

But then the U.S also got U.S only Panasonic uprights made with the Miele name before the S7 was launched worldwide. The UK never got any other upright other than the single "Alternative" stick vacuum or those niche D'Art models - neither of them were good sellers based on suction only tools/design.
 
Niclonic,

You reckon Dyson cyclones are perfect? Please see the picture of the filter on my DC24 after only 1 month domestic use, 3 times a week in a flat.

The only super 'efficient Dyson cyclone' is the new Cinetic, though I've not had one in my dusty flat.

Never had a problem with the Dual Cyclone machines either. I found them to filter the same. Infact the DC03 filtered better than any Root Cyclone I've ever used and that was a Dual Cyclone.

blakaeg++7-26-2014-21-54-54.jpg
 
When used in the previous house and shared residence with 2 others who have long hair. The DC24 pre motor had hair on it. Please note this pic is of the filters that were in the machine. My DC24 has recently been repaired and Dyson replaced the 'worn out' filters that lost their efficiency. That's why the HEPA filter looks cleaner & contains less carbon dust in the picture at the top.

blakaeg++7-26-2014-22-00-16.jpg
 
Well...

I've only used the DC07, which is at my mom's apartment right now. The filter looked like new after using it countless times. On the DC07, the pre-motor filter is located beside the motor. It only ever gets dirty if you vacuum up a ton of fine dust, such as carpet freshening powder. Those DC24 filters sure are gross! And it has, like, 6 cyclones? That's odd.

Hoover's implementation of dual-cyclonic technology is somewhat inefficient. While my Windtunnel vacuum doesn't lose suction, some hair and fluff gets to the filter, but I haven't seen a decrease in performance.

The worst example of "cyclonic technology" I've seen is from Shark. My grandmother owns a Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe, and although Euro-Pro claims that it "never loses suction," it is not multi-cyclonic, so the filter gets dirty VERY fast. But the machine still has decent suction.

Even worse is filter-based bagless vacuums, such as the Bissell Powerforce series. Those kinds of vacuums lose suction very quickly, because the filters trap all of the fine dust. Cleaning those filters makes a huge mess.

I am uploading one last pic of the filter on my Windtunnel, just to show how dirty 2 weeks of usage got the filter.

niclonnic-2014072622231600976_1.jpg
 

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